Diabetes in the Elderly

1. One Senior doing Exercise (Delhi) Diabetes in the Elderly In this 21st century, we get to see that both average life expectancy and the prevalence of diabetes are at a rise on a regular basis. Amongst the elderly population, type 2 of the diabetes has turned out to be a growing problem and it is found that a larger portion of the newly diagnosed diabetes patients are older. Caring for an elderly parent, relative or close family friend often involves managing one or more age-related health problems, such as diabetes. Diabetes occurs when the blood glucose level, sometimes known as blood sugar gets high. Diabetes leads to hazardous health related disorders. Types of Diabetes: There are usually two types of diabetes that takes a toll on our health. In type 1, the body prepares very less amount of insulin or no insulin at all. This particular type of diabetes is often seen in young adults or children. In type 2, the body prepares the insulin that is required but do not make use of it in the right way. This type of diabetes is the most common kind. This kind is also referred to as adult-onset diabetes. Doctors often see that the chance of getting type 2 diabetes is higher especially if you are overweight, physically inactive or have certain family history of diabetes. Pre-diabetes Being diagnosed with pre-diabetes suggests that the blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not quite high enough to be called diabetes. We all need glucose, a form of sugar that the body converts to energy, but too much of it can have a damaging effect over time. Home care services can be helpful to an elderly senior diagnosed with pre-diabetes. According to scientific research, 40 % of elderly (about 41 million people), have pre- diabetes. If your elderly parent or loved one has been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, they are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and a stroke. Most of the time, people with pre-diabetes don’t show any symptoms. Make a request to the doctor that they test the blood glucose levels of your elderly loved one, especially if the senior is overweight. Symptoms:

2. Some of the most common symptoms that a person with type 2 diabetes faces are listed below. If you too face such kind of problems do consult your doctor immediately. Get tired easily Hungry Thirsty Lose a lot of weight suddenly Urinate often Blurred vision Tests for Diabetes: Your doctor will ask you to test your diabetes level before diagnosing you. * Glucose test– Normal blood glucose level test. Done at any time of the day. * Fasting Glucose test– This test is done after non- consumption of food for at least 8 hours * Oral glucose tolerance test—This test is done after fasting for all through the night and then again fasting for another 2 hours after consuming a sugary drink. * HbA1C test—This test indicates your glucose level for the past 2–3 months. Managing Diabetes: Once it is diagnosed that you are suffering from type 2 diabetes, your doctor will prescribe you with medicines to control your glucose level. There are several kinds of medications available. In addition to controlling your diabetes level, you need to follow by the following instructions: * Self-Monitor your glucose level. * Prepare a list of healthy food choices. * Manage Hypoglycemia (a condition when blood sugar levels fall below 70 mg/dl). * Get educated about Insulin types and techniques. * Do the right type of exercises.(Needs to be customized according to the fasting and pp blood sugar levels.) * Keep a written track of how well you are doing. Your Doctors may ask you to get in touch with a “Diabetes Educator”who can help you deal with the health related problems that might be associated with diabetes. Do keep in touch with your Doctor and “Diabetes Educator”and consult with them with reports of medical tests at regular intervals. Mentioned below are some of the things that should be kept in mind. * Go for eye exams every year. * Check up on your kidney through clinical tests yearly. * Check your cholesterol levels. * Go to a dentist for oral health check up on a regular basis. * Track of your average blood sugar level.

3. * Watch your Blood Pressure. * Protect your skin from cuts and pricks. * Take good care of your feet. Nutrition alert for the Elderly: The seniors need to count every bite they eat. It is very important to choose nutritious food, which will give them a balanced diet. * Adequate amount of food intake is justifiable. * A well balanced diet is another important area that they should concentrate on. Ask the Nutritionist or Diabetes Educator what your body needs. Differences in diagnosing diabetes amongst the elderly in comparison to diabetes amongst the young: Taking care of diabetes amongst the elderly can offer unique confrontations. Other disabilities related with aging can add to the intricacy of self-managing diabetes. So, a well balanced practice should be maintained henceforth, to reduce the level of diabetes in elderly men or women. If you or an aging loved one are considering home care services near Delhi/Chandigarh/ Jaipur, and the surrounding areas please call Health care at home today for immediate information and pricing on our Toll free Number: 18001024224.